Outdoor Adventures in Mallorca: Your Complete Travel Guide

 

Mallorca, the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, is more than just a sun-soaked holiday escape.  Beyond its turquoise waters and lively resort towns, outdoor adventures in Mallorca can be found around every corner.  From sailing around dramatic limestone cliffs that plunge into the sea to hiking within its rugged interior, this island is packed with adventure opportunities!

Mallorca is also a premier destination for cyclists.  When Europe and North America are deep into the winter months of cold and grey days, Mallorca offers sunny mornings and plenty of empty roads with climbs that challenge, but reward, without battling harsh elements.

If you’re dreaming of a trip that combines Spanish food and culture, breathtaking scenery, and plenty of other outdoor activities to keep you busy, Mallorca should be at the top of your travel list!

 

This travel guide covers everything you need to know to plan a relaxing yet adventurous trip:

• How to get to Mallorca
• Best times to visit
• Where to stay for easy access to outdoor activities
• 5 best outdoor adventures in Mallorca
• Plus travel tips to help you plan your trip

 

So vamos, let’s go!

 

How to Get to Mallorca

 

Mallorca is easy to reach, whether you’re traveling from Europe or further abroad.  Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) is located just a few kilometers outside Palma, the capital.  As one of Spain’s busiest airports, it receives direct flights from most European cities, including London, Paris, and Rome.  Seasonal routes also bring in travelers from the U.S. and beyond during the summer months.

If you’re already in Spain, ferries are another option.  Daily services connect Mallorca with Barcelona, Valencia, and Denia, as well as other Balearic Islands like Ibiza and Menorca.  Ferries are slower but can be convenient if you’re traveling with a car and pets.  If you’re traveling by plane, renting a car is highly recommended once on the island for easy access to hiking, beaches, and remote villages that aren’t well-served by public transport.

When searching to make your travel arrangements, be aware that Mallorca may also appear written as Majorca or Maiorca, but they are all the same island.

 

 

Best Time to Visit for Outdoor Adventures in Mallorca

 

While Mallorca is a year-round destination, the best time for outdoor adventures in Mallorca is spring (April to June) and autumn (September to early November). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm without being overwhelming, and the crowds are lighter.  The winter months in Mallorca, from December through February, are ideal for hiking and cycling, as temperatures are cooler and the landscapes are lush.

Summer (July and August) is the hottest and busiest season.  While it’s great for swimming and sailing, daytime highs in the summer months in Mallorca can make strenuous activities like hiking or cycling uncomfortable.  If you do visit in peak summer, plan your adventures in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the strongest heat.

 

Best Towns to Stay in Mallorca for Adventure Access

 

Where you stay on the island can make a big difference in your adventure experience.  Here are a few top towns that serve as excellent bases:

 

Palma de Mallorca

The capital city is perfect if you want a mix of urban life and outdoor adventure. Palma offers historic architecture, lively restaurants, and quick access to both the Serra de Tramuntana mountains and the sea.

 

Sóller

Nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains and orange groves, Sóller is a dream base camp for cyclists, hikers, and nature lovers. It’s also connected to Palma by a historic wooden train, making for a scenic ride.

 

Port de Pollença

On the northern coast, this town is ideal for water sports, sailing, and access to nearby climbing and hiking routes.  Its laid-back vibe makes it popular with adventure travelers who also want a quiet base.  Keep in mind, the northern parts of Mallorca, while they may look close and easily accessible on a map, require hours of driving from Palma on winding and exposed mountain roads!

 

 

Top 5 Outdoor Adventures in Mallorca

 

1. Rock Climbing and Deep Water Soloing

Mallorca is world-renowned for its limestone cliffs, making it one of Europe’s top destinations for rock climbers.  Traditional sport climbing can be found across the island, but Mallorca is especially famous for deep water soloing (known locally as psicobloc or DWS).  This unique form of climbing involves scaling sea cliffs without ropes, with a fall sending you plunging into the Mediterranean!  The Cala Varques and Cova del Diablo areas are particularly popular with climbers who want to deep water solo in Mallorca.

For those new to climbing, especially deep water soloing, go with a guide!  TripAdvisor has a good round-up of the best rock climbing tours on the island.

 

2. Hiking the Serra de Tramuntana

The Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stretches along Mallorca’s northwestern coast and offers some of the island’s most rewarding hikes.  Trails range from easy coastal walks to challenging mountain treks.  One of the most famous routes is the GR-221, also known as the Dry Stone Route, a long-distance trail that takes you through charming villages, olive groves, and rugged peaks. Day hikes like the climb up Puig de Massanella, the island’s second-highest peak, provide panoramic views that are worth every step.

 

3. Cycling Mallorca’s Winding Roads and Classic Climbs

Mallorca is a mecca for cyclists, attracting amateurs and professionals alike.  The island’s varied terrain provides options for every skill level, from flat coastal rides, beach cruiser style, to challenging mountain ascents tackled by the pros.  The climb to Sa Calobra, with its 26 hairpin turns, is legendary among cycling enthusiasts!

The mild weather makes Mallorca especially popular for winter cycling trips.  Many hotels and shops around Palma and Alcúdia cater specifically to cyclists, offering bike rentals, guided tours, and repair services.  If you’re interested in booking a cycling training camp, check out Sa Calobra Cycling Club!

 

4. Swimming at the Hidden Coves and Beaches

While Mallorca’s beaches are famous, some of the best swimming spots require a bit of adventure to reach.  Hidden coves like Cala Deià, Cala Tuent, and Cala Varques reward hikers or boaters with crystal-clear waters and fewer crowds than the island’s more popular beaches. Snorkeling is also excellent here, with vibrant marine life just below the surface.  If you’re looking for a more remote and wild swimming experience, head to the rugged eastern or northern coastlines, where cliffs and pine forests frame secluded coves.

 

5. Sailing and Boating Adventures

The coastline of Mallorca is best appreciated from the water, and sailing is a quintessential island experience.  You can charter a sailboat for the day, join a guided catamaran trip, or rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore at your own pace. Popular sailing routes include exploring the Bay of Palma, cruising to Cabrera National Park, or anchoring in secluded bays along the northern coast. With calm Mediterranean waters and consistent breezes, Mallorca is a paradise for both experienced sailors and beginners looking to try something new.

 

 

Tips for Planning Outdoor Adventures in Mallorca

 

Rent a car:

While public transport connects major towns, a rental car gives you the freedom to explore remote trails and hidden coves, and get to places like Sa Calobra or the northern town of Port de Pollença.

 

Bring your own gear:

Unless you’ve booked with a tour operator that is supplying gear, pack everything you need for hiking, biking, and rock climbing.  A Camelbak or other hydration pack is also a good idea.  There will be little opportunity to buy gear for outdoor adventures in Mallorca, especially once you leave Palma!

 

Pack layers and a rain jacket:

All outdoor adventurers know that weather can play a key role in the day’s activities.  Weather in the mountains of Mallorca can shift quickly, so always pack rain gear and layers!

 

Book outdoor activities in advance:

Guided tours and adventure activities in Mallorca can fill up during peak seasons, so plan ahead to secure your spot.  Especially if you have an interest in winter cycling camps!

 

Respect nature and culture:

The Serra de Tramuntana is a UNESCO site, and the island’s environment is fragile.  Stick to marked trails and follow local guidelines while traveling in Mallorca.

 

 

Why Plan Your Outdoor Adventures in Mallorca

 

Mallorca combines natural beauty, Spanish culture, and a wide range of outdoor activities.  You can climb limestone cliffs in the morning, cycle through mountain passes in the afternoon, and end the day swimming in a hidden cove or sailing under the sunset.  Add in charming villages, delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and friendly hospitality, and you have the perfect formula for an unforgettable trip!

Whether you’re a climber seeking the thrill of deep water soloing, a cyclist chasing the famous switchbacks of Sa Calobra, or a hiker eager to explore the Tramuntana trails, outdoor adventures in Mallorca await!

 

If you’re interested in more outdoor adventures like rock climbing and cycling, check out these blogs:

 

• Cycling California: Catalina Bike Adventures
• Costa Brava: Spain’s Wild Coast
• Dolomites Adventure Travel: Italy’s Top Hiking and Climbing Destination

 

Thanks for reading and happy travels!

Meredith Caccese McConvill, Top Rope Media

Gifts for Outdoor Lovers and the Adventurers in Your Life

 

Searching for fun gifts for outdoor lovers who hike, bike, or camp?  Well, whether Mother’s Day, Christmas, birthdays, Valentine’s Day, or just to say thanks, there’s always something the outdoorsy types in your life have on their wish list!

 

And remember, although it feels good to give to family and friends, it feels even better to give back.  So, if you’re looking for an adventurous gift that also makes a difference, check out our Top 10 Non-Profit Outdoor Organizations that would love your support!

 

Top Gifts for Outdoor Lovers

 

We’ve selected our gifts for outdoor lovers based on items we love, already own, or can’t wait to purchase.  We’re not sponsored or supported by any of these brands and make no commission if you make a purchase.

 

1. Storyworth- Write a Book Together!

 

In 2023, I wrote a book with my Dad.  We used Storyworth, and it’s wonderful!  You pay a one-year subscription fee of $99 and get an email delivered to you each week that prompts you to write a story.  You can use their pre-planned weekly questions, or better yet create your own.   Storyworth is perfect for memoirs, to better connect with family, a best friend, or a loved one.

After almost a year of writing down stories and new chapters of my Dad’s life, I have 286 pages!  You can learn more about our book here.  Once you feel ‘finished’, you can print the book.  One book is included in the Storyworth subscription, and they take care of all the page layout, binding, etc.  Keep in mind, you are responsible for the editing, and this does take some diligence!  Additional books can be ordered as needed for about $39 a book, not including shipping and taxes.

We cannot express how much this meant to my dad and me, and our family.  So, deliver one of the best presents you will gift all year with Storyworth!

 

 

2. Gift an Experience

 

Based on the number of items we take every few months to Goodwill, we certainly do not need more clothes or shoes.  So, second in our list of gifts for outdoor lovers is to gift an experience.  What might be a fun experience worth gifting?  Here are a few thoughts:

 

• Ski trip- Ikon Pass Travel offers packages exclusively for Ikon Pass holders
• Book a Bike and Walking Tour- check out our friends at Food.Stories.Travel.
• Cooking class
• Camping trip -rent an RV or sprinter van with Outdoorsy.com
• Farm stay- spend a day or a weekend with alpacas and sheep!

 

 

3. National Parks Pass-The Gift of Adventure

 

4. Keep Your Outdoor Lover Caffeinated with JetBoil’s Flash Java Kit

 

Mornings at camp are much better when the coffee is brewing!  After years of traveling with all sorts of compact French presses and stovetop espresso makers, we’ve found JetBoil’s Flash Java Kit to be the bomb.

The perks: Super speedy boil- about 100 seconds!! Insulated container with coffee press neatly inside.  Very portable.  Easy to clean.  Can be used to heat water for lots of other meals!

The cons: It’s small, so if there are more than 2 of you, you’ll need to make another batch.  You need to buy the mini fuel canisters, although these seem to last forever, especially if you’re only using them to make coffee!

 

 

5. Travel Books to Inspire Outdoor Adventures

 

Inspire your adventure buddy or your kids with a great travel book!  From travel guidebooks to captivating stories of adventure, there are so many options.  How about a coffee table-worthy collection or a great book to curl up with in your sleeping bag?

We love Falcon Guides, especially for rock climbing, but here are other books that make good gifts for the outdoorsy person in your life:

• Amazon’s best adventure books for kids
• Travel stories, travel guidebooks, or good reads that inspire.
• Here are the 50 Best Books to Read While Traveling by the Broke Backpacker!
• Magazine subscriptions to Nat Geo, Travel + Leisure, or AFAR Magazine

 

 

6. Travel Bags and Backpacks

 

Gifts like travel bags, hip packs, packing cubes, toiletry kits, gravel bar bags, and duffle bags are great for adventurers who like to keep stuff organized!  For those who love a more feminine touch, you can’t go wrong with anything from Aloha.  They have so many tropical styles and are also splash-proof!

Do you want something more rugged for hiking or to withstand mountain bike park laps?  We love Dakine’s Hot Laps Bike Pack.  This hip pack comes with a hydration pack inside and is available in 1-liter, 2-liter, or 5-liter packs!

 

 

7. The Ooni Pizza Oven- Make Outdoor Dining More Fun!

 

Well, we all love pizza.  I wasn’t a believer that the Ooni Pizza Oven could transform the way we make pizza, but it does.  It’s incredible!!!  The oven heats up to 950°F/500°C and within seconds, your pizza is crisp and delicious!

Pros: You can hook it up to propane or use wood to fire your oven.  In addition, the Ooni Pizza Oven can come camping with you.  It’s portable and has a travel bag!

Cons: It takes some practice to get the pizza right.  A lot of practice.   You’ll need to buy a few tools in addition to your Ooni- a pizza peel, scraper, and oh yeah, you should learn how to make your own dough!

 

 

8. Garmin In Reach- A Satellite messenger for the truly adventurous

 

Does your outdoor adventurer disappear for hours or days into the backcountry?   Well, whether hiking, skiing, sailing, or rock climbing, having some sort of communication or location device is a necessity.

Therefore, a great gift for your outdoor lover could be a Garmin InReach, which acts as both a personal locator beacon (PLB) and a satellite messenger device.  REI did a great job of breaking down the differences between each.  Here are a few PLBs and satellite messengers on the market:

• Spot
• Ocean Signal Rescue Me PBL1
• Garmin InReach- the most popular one
• ACR- ResQLink

 

Perks: By using satellite technology, you can send and receive messages, navigate your route, get the weather, share your journey, and send out an SOS signal to a global response center that’s staffed 24/7 if needed.  Talk about peace of mind!

Cons: However, there is a downside to purchasing a Garmin InReach or Spot over the basic PBL or RescueMe device.  You or a family member will need an active subscription when using the Garmin InReach, but you can pay only for the month you need it.  As an example, Garmin InReach subscription plans can be annual or monthly and range from $15-65 depending on the plan you choose.

 

 

9. Jackery Power Station- for Van Lifers or Outdoor Lovers Who Work From the Road

 

One of the biggest challenges we face while camping and on extended road trips?  Having a reliable power source.  You can opt for camping in spots with electricity hookups, but these are often hard to get.

Therefore, to charge everything from headlamps to laptops, gift your outdoorsy friend a Jackery Power Station and a portable solar charger!  They can charge it when the sun is out, and if it’s not, the Jackery can charge off the car when it’s running.

Other brands that make portable power systems we like?  Biolite, Goal Zero, and Anker.

Another emergency charger we were gifted and can’t live without?  The HALO Bolt Charger.  This baby has enough juice to jump-start your car and charge your laptop several times!!

 

 

10. Emergency Medical Kit- A Gift for the risk-taking, outdoor adventurer

 

What can you do to protect the outdoor adventurers in your life?  Get them a medical kit for emergencies!  Our favorite ones are from Adventure Medical Kits.  And, they come in lots of different varieties based on where you travel and for how long. 

We’re big fans of getting educated and being prepared.  We took a Wilderness First Responder Course and wrote a blog about it, and we also took our Avalanche Level 1!  And yes, I wrote a blog about Avalanche Safety on Backcountry Adventures!  You get the point.  We like to be prepared…the more you know and all…

 

 

11. Headlamps, Lanterns, and String Lights to Brighten Up the Night

 

Light up the campsite, or any area outdoors that’s too far from a power source, with a few sets of Bio Lite String Lights.  In addition, Biolite makes portable table lamps or lanterns that double as a charging station.  And we never go on any outdoor adventures without packing a Petzl headlamp.  They are always great if you get caught out after dark, for setting up camp at night, or making dinner!

Most Petzl headlamps and Biolite string lights are USB rechargeable,  lightweight, and easy to pack!  Never be afraid to leave your tent to walk to the bathroom again!

 

 

12. The Meater- A Gift for the Grill Master

 

The MEATER is a Smart Meat Thermometer that connects to your phone with Bluetooth and works great for the BBQ grill or in the oven.  For those who guesstimate the time it takes to cook chicken or medium-rare steaks, or those who wander from the grill because they are multitasking, the MEATER is perfect!

The app guides you through what you’ll be cooking and gives you the estimates on time needed, temperature, etc.  It pings you when it’s time to take your meat off the grill, and then sets a timer for your meat to rest.  Never overcook or undercook your meat again!

 

 

13. Wool Blankets, Beanies, Thermals, and Socks to Keep Warm on Chilly Nights

 

Ever since we visited the Pendleton Woolen Mills in Pendleton, Oregon, we have been big fans!  A nice Pendleton wool blanket, wool socks, thermals, beanies, and sweaters all make great gifts for your outdoor adventurers!

Here are a few reasons to buy gifts made from merino, alpaca, cashmere, or angora wool:

• Keeps you warmer than synthetics or cotton
• Insulates even when damp or wet
• More breathable
• Easy to care for
• Made from natural fibers
• Doesn’t smell the way your poly-stink-aline does! (That’s my word.  You can borrow it.)

 

Some of my favorite outdoor brands that make lots of cool wool products besides Pendleton include SmartWool and IceBreaker.  When in doubt, a gift card to REI lets your outdoor traveler shop for the perfect style and fit!

 

 

Need Even More Gift Ideas for Outdoor Lovers?

 

Hope this gives you some unique gift ideas for outdoorsy family members and friends!  Need even more?

• We Boost Cell Signal Booster
• Starlink for RVs- for those on the road for extended periods, or traveling to remote places where you need to work
• Noso Gear Repair Patches– Instead of replacing, patch those puffies, sleeping bags, and backpacks!
• Buff Neck Gaiters
• Ruffwear– for dog owners, Ruffwear keeps Lucy looking good and staying warm!
• Tailgater Tire Table

 

Don’t forget to check out our favorite outdoor non-profit organizations that would absolutely love your support.  By supporting a non-profit, you can send a gift that is truly memorable!  Here are just a few options:

• Provide a companion dog for someone in need, and save on your taxes!
• Grant outdoor recreational opportunities for low-income families and at-risk youth

 

Thanks for reading, and happy shopping!

Meredith McConvill, Top Rope Media

Mammoth Road Trip for Summer or Wintertime Fun

 

With beautiful views of towering mountain peaks, a Mammoth road trip through the Eastern Sierras will have most passengers stoked for a big weekend of riding at Mammoth Mountain.

Along the way, you’ll find great campgrounds, hiking, and some of the best rock climbing in the world!  In addition, you’ll pass Mt. Whitney, the tallest peak in the continental United States.  More on how to apply for a permit to hike Whitney in a bit!

 

Haven’t packed up for a road trip lately?  Pull up our road trip checklist to make sure you’ve got everything you need!

 

ROAD TRIP CHECKLIST

 

Places to Visit on Your Mammoth Road Trip

 

• June Lake
• Yosemite National Park
• Mono Lake
• Owens River Gorge
• Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest
• Mount Whitney

 

Before we dive in further, if you’re really interested in visiting Yosemite National Park, read our Yosemite Blog!  In addition, keep in mind that access to Yosemite via Route 395/Tioga Pass is often closed from October through June or later due to snow. 

 

What’s Included in this Mammoth Road Trip Guide

 

Whether you’ll be based in Mammoth Lakes, Bishop, or elsewhere, this guide will help you make the most of your trip.  We’ll cover:

 

1. Camping and Accommodations
2. Skiing and Snowboarding
3. Mountain Biking, Gravel, and Road Cycling
4. Fishing
5. Hiking
6. Rock Climbing
7. Hot Springs
8. Food & Nightlife

 

 

1. Accommodations & Camping Options on Your Mammoth Road Trip

 

Best Accommodations for your Mammoth road trip

 

Both Mammoth Lakes and Bishop have a range of hotels, Airbnb’s, and camping options that suit every budget.  On average, accommodations in Bishop or Lone Pine will be much cheaper than in Mammoth Lakes.  There are quite a lot of budget options ranging from $60-150 a night. However, once you reach the town of Mammoth, you can expect to pay almost double for a hotel or Airbnb, but it’s worth it, especially in the wintertime! 

Keep in mind, there is no parking on the streets in Mammoth Lakes between Nov 1-April 30th, so if you have a mountainside rental or hotel, you can walk to the slopes!

 

Our favorite places to stay on a Mammoth Road Trip to Mammoth Lakes include:

1. Austria Hof– Austrian-style ski chalet, 5-minute walk to the lifts at Canyon Lodge, great restaurant, bar, and jacuzzi
2. Mammoth Mountain Inn– ski-in/ski-out accommodations at Main Lodge
3. Tamarack Lodge– A classic lakeside retreat close to the lakes and cross-country ski trails
4. The Westin or Village Lodge– In the village with gondola access to the mountain
5. Alpenhof Lodge– In town, above the Clocktower Cellar Bar and Petra’s Bistro

 

The Mammoth Mountain Inn, Tamarack, and the Village Lodge can be booked through Mammoth Mountain lodging reservations.  Each accommodation has a nice restaurant, bar, pool/jacuzzi (except for Tamarack Lodge), and great activities right from the doorstep.  The Austria Hof is our favorite with easy access to both Canyon Lodge, and to get down into the village where you can access all the shops and other services.  While Mammoth Mountain Inn seems perfect, nestled right at Main Lodge, you will feel isolated, especially during a storm when there’s only the lodge bar and restaurant available. 

 

Top Camping Spots for your Mammoth road trip

 

We’re always surprised by the amount of RVs and sprinter vans parked in the lots at Mammoth Mountain, so we thought we’d give you a few places to camp on your Mammoth Road Trip! If you have an insulated camper van or RV, you can enjoy year-round camping throughout the area.  However, if you’ll be road-tripping with just a tent, camping will be challenging in the winter months north of Bishop.  Therefore, an Airbnb or hotel might be your best bet if you’re driving up to ski or snowboard at Mammoth Mountain or June Mountain!  Here’s some of our favorite places to camp during a Mammoth road trip:

 

Mammoth Lakes Camping

 

First, a warning.  You cannot camp or park your RV/van/sprinter overnight in any of the Mammoth Mountain parking lots in the wintertime.  In addition, you cannot park on the streets from November 1st to April 30th. 

So if you’re heading up to ski, check with Mammoth Mountain for accommodations or try the Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground where they offer year-round camping options.

 

If your Mammoth road trip will be in the summertime, or at least between May through October, Twin Lakes Campground and Lake Mary Campground are our favorites.  Need a break from camp?  A great place to check out nearby is the Tamarack Lodge for cocktails or dining!

Here you will find incredible views of the mountains, easy access to hiking and biking trails, lakes (very chilly ones) to swim in, and you’ll be at over 9,000ft!  Here’s more info on camping in Mammoth Lakes.

 

June Lake Camping

 

June Lake is our second choice for camping.  However, you’ll only find these campgrounds open May through October, or whenever the snow is cleared.

You will find several campgrounds located on June Lake, Gull Lake, and Silver Lake.  Reversed Creek Campground and Gull Lake Campground are two of our favorites.  They do not get booked as quickly as the June Lake campground, so both are good places to check out if everything else seems full.  Plus, you can still walk or pedal into town from your campsite!

 

Bishop Camping

 

There are lots of campgrounds in the Bishop area, and staying here in the winter to camp is a little bit easier as you’re only at about 4,000ft so it will be warmer.  You can find lots of dispersed camping in Pine Creek Canyon, Upper Rock Creek, in the Coyote Mountains, family-friendly accommodations at Bishop Park, and walk-in camping at Table Mountain Group Camp.   

The Pleasant Valley Pit is also a favorite campsite for rock climbers exploring Owens River Gorge, Happy and Sad Boulders, or the Buttermilks!

If you want to camp by hot springs, Keoughs Hot Springs Resort, just south of Bishop, offers great camping spots along with easy access to showers and a pool fed by thermal waters!

 

Lee Vining Camping

 

The tiny town of Lee Vining borders Mono Lake and is at the Eastern entrance to Yosemite National Park.  In addition, it is a very popular camp spot for those wishing to explore both areas plus Mammoth Lakes.  From here you can also view the Mono Craters, the remnants of the great glaciers that carved out the Sierra Mountains!

The Lower Lee Vining Campground is located along Tioga Pass Road.  However, it’s at 7,300 ft., so make sure to check the website to ensure it’s open before driving up.  Depending on snow conditions, Tioga Pass Road is often closed until June, sometimes July!

 

Yosemite National Park Camping

 

Searching for camping in Yosemite National Park?  Well, so is everyone else.  To say that camping is extremely competitive within Yosemite National Park is an understatement.  Check Recreation.gov to book a campsite well in advance of your road trip.

 

 

Best Time of Year to Camp on a Mammoth Road Trip

 

Spring, summer, and fall are the best times of year to camp on a Mammoth road trip.  When the fishing season begins in April, and then certainly in July and August, you will find less availability for campsites.  If you choose not to make reservations in advance on Recreation.gov or ReserveCalifornia.com be prepped to find dispersed camping, or book a hotel or Airbnb.

If you want to visit when the trees change color, fall is gorgeous in the eastern Sierras!  However, it will be chilly in the evenings and early mornings, so plan accordingly!

 

How to Prepare for Bears on Your Mammoth Road Trip

 

Another very important thing to keep in mind when in Mammoth is that this is bear country.  Therefore, you must lock ALL scented items in your bearbox at the campsite.  And even if you’re staying at a hotel or Airbnb in Mammoth, it’s wise not to leave trash outside, or any food in your car.

Besides food, this means toiletries, lip balm, gum, utensils, sunblock…basically, anything that might smell like food.  The very last thing you want is to be woken up at 3am by a momma bear digging through your trash can, your cooler, or your tent with you still in it!!

 

Will you be dispersed camping?  Well then buy a bear box or bear canisters at REI, or learn how to hang your food.  Not only do bears sniff out your greasy camp stove but we’ve had all sorts of animals invade our camp.  Marmots, deer, goats, chipmunks, squirrels, and raccoons!  Some during broad daylight, and while we were sitting at the campsite!

 

2. Skiing and snowboarding on your Mammoth road trip

 

Mammoth Mountain is a huge ski resort with every type of terrain a skier or snowboarder could dream of.  Plus, they get an abundance of snow and the Ikon Pass gets you unlimited access!

 

Looking for something smaller and less crowded?  Locals favor June Mountain over Mammoth on the weekends as it’s also on the Ikon Pass.  More options?  The Badger Pass Ski Area is in Yosemite National Park, however, it’s on the western side of the Sierras.

 

If you’d like to explore the backcountry around Mammoth Lakes, check out our blog post on preparing for backcountry adventures to get tons of tips on books to read and courses to attend before heading out!

 

PREPPING FOR BACKCOUNTRY ADVENTURE TRAVEL

 

 

3. GRAVEL, road cycling, and Mountain Biking at Mammoth

 

If you’re visiting during the summer months, the mountain biking here is epic!!  In addition, the Mammoth Mountain Bike Park is world-class.  Both on the mountain and in town you will be able to rent mountain bikes, helmets, and everything else you’d need for a day of riding the lift-accessed trails.

 

Not really into the downhill thing?  Well, Mammoth Lakes, June Lake, and Bishop all have trails that are accessible without using ski lifts.  In addition, both gravel and road cyclists will enjoy all the beautiful, yet almost deserted roads just off the 395.  Our favorite big roads for climbing and of course sweeping descents are:

 

• Whitney Portal Road (The road up to the start of the Mt. Whitney trailhead in Lone Pine, CA)
• White Mountain Road (Leads to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest east of Bishop, CA)
• Horseshoe Meadows Road (Access to Horseshoe Meadows Campground at over 10,000ft near Lone Pine, CA)
• Rock Creek Road (Try Upper and Lower Rock Creek, off the 395 Toms Place exit)
• Movie Flat Road, Alabama Hills (dozens of movies were filmed here near Lone Pine, CA)

 

4. Fishing on Your Mammoth Road Trip

 

The Eastern Sierras are chock-full of streams and lakes where several species of trout, perch, and bass can be found.  It’s also one of a few spots where you can find the elusive Golden Trout!

Be sure to purchase a fishing license and check the local regulations.  Certain areas are off-limit, while others require the use of barbless hooks and artificial flies or lures.

 

Top Three Fishing Spots (and also just Beautiful Places to Visit!)

 

Lake Crowley

 

One of the most popular lakes for catching large trout is Lake Crowley.  You can fish from the shore, rent kayaks or a boat and enjoy this manmade reservoir that’s teeming with trout!

 

Convict Lake

 

Touted as one of the most beautiful lakes in California, Convict Lake is easy to access and has Mount Morrison as a beautiful backdrop.  Convict Lake gets its name from a famous shootout between a group of convicts and a posse of bounty hunters.

Today, visitors enjoy Convict Lake for camping, hiking, and, of course, fishing.  You can catch big trout from the shore, by boat, canoe, or kayak.  In addition, you can relax and simply paddle around on your SUP or float tube.

 

Owens River

 

The longest river in the Eastern Sierra and one of the best for trout fishing is the Owens River.  The Upper Owens River is where most of the action is, with unusually large fish being pulled out year-round.

 

 

5. Hiking & Trail Running near Mammoth

 

With low humidity and temperatures in the mid-70s, June-August is the best time to go hiking and trail running in the Mammoth area.  But always be prepared for snow at high elevations.

Although the air is relatively cool, the high elevation and dry air can increase your risk of sunburn and dehydration. Therefore, be sure to bring sunblock and drink plenty of water!

 

best Hiking And Trail Runs on your mammoth road trip 

 

Rainbow Falls via Devil’s Postpile

 

The Rainbow Falls Trail is 4.8 miles out and back hike that takes you past Devil’s Postpile.  This area alone draws hundreds of visitors each day to walk across the rock formations or hexagonal ‘postpiles’. 

The Rainbow Falls Trail is suitable for all runners, hikers, and dogs on leash are welcome. However, the trail will most likely be closed all winter as is the road to Devil’s Postpile.

 

Lundy Canyon Trail

 

Closer to Lee Vining, the Lundy Canyon Trail is a lightly trafficked 5.5 miles out and back trail.  We recommend this trail if you’re traveling in the early Fall as you’ll see the leaves changing colors, wildflowers, waterfalls, and even a famed beaver dam.  Dogs on leashes are welcome.

 

Mt. Whitney via the Mount Whitney Trail

 

The Mount Whitney Trail is a 21.9-mile strenuous hike that summits Mt. Whitney, the highest point in the lower 48.  This being said, some might feel you need to be an experienced rock climber and have proper climbing gear.  While there are technical climbing routes on Whitney, there is a 3rd class route that can be summited without climbing gear.

Mt. Whitney permits are required for those who plan to camp overnight and become available via lottery in February.  Didn’t quite plan that far ahead?  You can still do the hike, or others nearby up to gorgeous alpine lakes, you just cannot camp.  Check in at the Lone Pine Ranger Station for last-minute openings for a Whitney Trail permit!

 

The John Muir Trail

 

Often another bucket list hike is the 211-mile John Muir Trail from Yosemite Valley to Mt. Whitney.  The trail runs mainly in conjunction with the Pacific Crest Trail or most often called the PCT.

On the hike, you’ll pass through both the John Muir and Ansel Adams Wildernesses, Sequoia and Kings Canyon, and of course Yosemite National Park. Get all the details about permits and preparation on the PCT website!

 

 

 

 

6. Rock Climbing near Mammoth Lakes

 

When it comes to rock climbing near Mammoth, Yosemite National Park is not only the best in Sierras, it’s one of the best rock climbing destinations in the world!  You could spend your whole life climbing here and not discover all that Yosemite has to offer.

 

However, there are also many places to go trad or sport climbing near Mammoth Lakes.  From Pine Creek to Owens River Gorge to the imposing Mammoth Crest!  There are several local guidebooks by Marty Lewis, with thousands of routes described in great detail.  It also includes tons of pictures, diagrams, and maps of how to get to each climbing area.

 

Best Time Of Year To Climb

 

For rock climbers, the colder and drier the rock is, the better.  This is because cold, dry weather produces more friction between your skin and the rock.  Bishop tends to stay fairly cool and dry, so climbing is great from October through May.  After May, head to higher elevations near Pine Creek Canyon, Mammoth Lakes or Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite National Park. 

 

Top Spots for Rock Climbing Near Mammoth Lakes

 

Tuolumne Meadows, Yosemite National Park

 

If you’re interested in climbing skip the crowded Yosemite Valley and head for Tuolumne Meadows.  Here you’ll find fewer crowds, cooler temps, and a greater chance of scoring a campsite!

 

In addition, if you think Yosemite climbing is all about Half Dome and El Capitan, think again.  Tuolumne Meadows has hundreds of both trad and sport routes, and dozens of boulder problems. 

The classics in Tuolumne include Tenaya, Matthes Crest, and Cathedral Peak.  We also love the roadside access of Stately Dome and Daft Dome.  Plus you can swim in Tenaya Lake when you finish up!

 

The Buttermilks and Happy & Sad Boulders

 

These are some of the most famous bouldering spots in Bishop.  The Buttermilks boast big quartz monzonite boulders with polished patina crimps as well as sharp edges. 

 

Just twenty minutes away from the Buttermilks you can find the Happy & Sad Boulders, a formation of volcanic tablelands. Here you’ll find hundreds of world-class boulder routes.

 

Owens River Gorge & Pine Creek

 

According to Mountain Project, the Owens River Gorge is the most concentrated sport-climbing area.  This makes it a great stop for sport climbers of all levels. 

However, this area is often crowded in the Spring and Fall, and super hot in the summer.  Therefore, you might want to head up in elevation to Pine Creek Canyon where you’ll find hundreds of routes that are both sport and trad climbing.  Both areas are often climbable all year round, but summer temps can be close to 100 degrees in the Gorge!

 

 

7. Visiting Hot Springs on Your Mammoth Road Trip

 

One of our favorite stops while on a Mammoth road trip is visiting the hot springs along Route 395.  Some of these geothermal pools are natural, they are small and often hidden, making it even more exciting when you arrive and can have one all to yourself!

Nothing beats a soak in the hot springs after a long day of hiking, climbing, or skiing at Mammoth Mountain!

 

Best Time Of Year For Hot Springs

 

Cold weather makes the hot springs feel more luxurious, so we recommend visiting in winter, fall, and spring.  However, heavy snowfall might prevent you from getting there!  In addition, many of the hot springs are clothing optional, so be prepared if you have little kids in tow!

 

Top Hot Springs to Visit on Your Mammoth Lakes Road Trip

 

Wild Willy’s, the Crab Cooker, and Hilltop Hot Springs

 

Close to the Mammoth Airport, Wild Willy’s Hot Springs and Hilltop Hot Springs are the easiest to find in the area. Mostly all can be seen on Google or Apple Maps.  Be prepared to walk a bit down a dirt road, muddy or snow-covered path, or along a series of boardwalks to get out to each of the pools.

In addition, there’s no shelter from the sun and they are very rustic (think rock-like bathtub in a cow pasture).  However, the incredible views of the Sierras and the stars coming out at sunset can’t be beaten!

 

Old Benton Hot Springs

 

The Old Benton Hot Springs is a private spot with a motel, thermal-fed hot tubs, and a historic mining town.  We would not recommend traveling here unless you are heading east via Highway 120 and Highway 6.  In addition, you have to be a motel guest to access the hot tubs.

 

Keough Hot Springs

 

Keough Hot Springs Resort is just off the 395 near Bishop.  You’ll find an old pool house with two pools fed by the natural hot springs or you can head a bit down the road where the primitive pools lay. Keough’s also offers a snack stand, changing rooms, showers, and camping!

 

Travertine Hot Springs

 

If you have the time, Travertine Hot Springs is a great destination.  These all-natural hot springs have a beautiful view, and there are several pools where you can relax and enjoy.

The Travertine Hot Springs is closer to Bridgeport, which is an hour north of Mammoth Lakes.  However, it’s worth the trip if you are coming from or continuing north to Lake Tahoe!

 

The Travertine Hot Springs is also a great place to stop if you’re planning to visit Bodie State Historic Park.  Bodie is an old gold mining town turned ghost town with still beautifully intact buildings that once housed 10,000 residents!

 

 

8. Food & Nightlife on your Mammoth Road Trip

 

Though we all love the great outdoors, no trip is complete without some great food and local craft brews.  We enjoy preparing our own feast at the campsite, but sometimes we do head into town when we are out of food or too tired to cook!  Here are some great options for every budget.

 

Best food and drinks in Mammoth Lakes:

 

Try the Village at Mammoth Lakes for a few different restaurants and bar options.  We love Shelter Distilling for food and beverages aprés ski!  The Clocktower Cellar and the Sierra Bar are also fun spots with good pub food!  And then Mammoth Brewing Company is another classic.

With the fam?  Try Mammoth Rock n’ Bowl! 

 

Our hands-down favorite aprés ski bar is the Lincoln Bar at Canyon Lodge at Mammoth Mountain.  Finish your last run of the day here on Friday or Saturday, grab a Mammoth Mocha, and be ready to dance or just bob along with the crowd as the DJ turns the music up!

 

Best Food & Drinks In Bishop:

 

No road trip to Mammoth is complete without a stop at the OG Schat’s Bakery in Bishop!  And if you want a great sandwich or stocking up on road trip snacks, try Mahogany Smoked Meats!

Need a strong cocktail after a long day’s drive?  Owen’s Valley Distilling Company is a cozy bar off the beaten path!  Want a bigger, fancy meal?  Try the Whiskey Creek Steakhouse.

 

Wishing You Safe & Happy Adventures in Mammoth

 

If you’ve never traveled along the 395 through Bishop to Mammoth Lakes, I hope this inspires you to add it to your adventure list!  And if you’ve been a dozen times, I hope this guide gives you some new ideas.

 

Want more adventure tips and travel destinations?  Check out some of our other travel blogs here:

• Cuba Libre: Travel Tips for Outdoor Adventurers
• Backpacking in the Wind River Range, Wyoming
• San Diego: America’s Finest City

 

To learn more about what we do on the regular, follow Top Rope Media’s adventures on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter.

 

Until next time, happy road-tripping!

 

– Meredith McConvill, Top Rope Media

CAMPING IN YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

 

With beautiful lush green valleys, wild rivers, and towering granite peaks, camping in Yosemite National Park offers so many places to explore!  If you’re wondering what the current rules are for visiting the park, if you need a day pass, and how to find a campsite, we’ve got you covered!

In this blog, we’ll cover:

1. Highlights of Yosemite
2. The Park’s History and Sacred Origins
3. Getting to Yosemite National Park
4. Reservations and Day Passes
5. Where to Stay- Hotels, Lodging, Camping in Yosemite National Park
6. Rock Climbing in Yosemite National Park
7. Other Activities in Yosemite National Park
8. Spotting Bears and Other Wildlife

 

When you’re camping in Yosemite National Park, or even staying at one of the many park lodges, you’ll get the opportunity to see the park during quieter hours.  This means more trails, wildlife, waterfalls, and spectacular views all to yourself! 

In addition, Yosemite is the premier destination for rock climbers.  So if you want early access to climbs on El Capitan, the Sentinel, or Half Dome, or just want to sit back and watch the magic happen, camping in Yosemite is the way to go.

Let’s dive into Yosemite National Park, and why it remains one of our favorite places on the planet!

 

1. Highlights of Yosemite

 

In addition to rock climbing and camping in Yosemite National Park, there are so many activities to enjoy.  Here are just a few of the highlights that make this park so special:

• The iconic view from ‘Tunnel View’
• Hiking to the top of Yosemite Falls
• The park’s history and its first inhabitants
• Wildlife viewing in the meadows
• Skiing and snowboarding (yes, there’s a ski resort in Yosemite!)
• Swimming and kayaking in Tenaya Lake

 

You’ll need a car to get here, but once you arrive you can take the shuttle system or hike to almost all places we’ve included below.  First, if you haven’t packed for a road trip lately,  bookmark our road trip checklist to view later to ensure you’ve got everything!

 

ROAD TRIP CHECKLIST

2. The Park’s History and Sacred Origins

 

Yosemite National Park’s breathtaking landscapes have drawn visitors for centuries, but its origins stretch far beyond its designation as a national park in 1890.  Long before the U.S. government claimed stewardship, the Ahwahneechee people, a branch of the Southern Sierra Miwok, thrived in the Yosemite Valley for thousands of years, living in harmony with the land.

Other tribes, including the Mono and Paiute, also had deep connections to the region, shaping its trails, meadows, and cultural history.  Therefore, the park was not “founded” by settlers but taken through violent conflicts during which Indigenous people were forced from their homeland. 

There are several places in the park where you can learn more about the indigenous history of Yosemite:

• The Yosemite Museum
• The Indian Village of the Ahwahnee
• Mariposa Museum and History Center

 

Today, the descendants of these tribes continue to fight for recognition and the right to protect their ancestral lands, reminding us that Yosemite’s true history is one of resilience, not discovery.

 

 3. Getting to Yosemite National Park

Yosemite via the eastern Sierras, Route 395, and Tioga Pass

 

To reach Yosemite National Park from the Eastern Sierras, head north on 395 from June Lake, Mammoth, or Bishop.  Or head south on 395 from Reno or Lake Tahoe.  If you haven’t read our Eastern Sierras Road Trip blog, take a peek at that first!

You’ll summit Tioga Pass, at almost 10,000ft, and enter the park through the Tioga Entrance.  Keep in mind, Tioga Pass and Tioga Road both close by late October and do not open up until June or later when the snow has been cleared. 

In addition, both the Tioga Entrance and Tioga Road, in general, are much quieter compared to Yosemite Valley, and you can easily reach the following spots:

• Tuolumne Meadows
• Tenaya Lake
• Olmsted Point
• Clouds Rest

Yosemite via the south entrance, Big Oak Flat, or Arch Rock entrances

 

Planning to visit Yosemite Valley where you’ll find Half Dome and El Capitan?  Well, then your best bet is to enter at the South Entrance or on the west side of the park at either Big Oak Flat or Arch Rock entrances.

The west side of Yosemite and its entrances are open year-round, with road closures only when there’s snow.  On this side of the park, you’ll enjoy El Capitan and Half Dome, plus:

• Yosemite Falls
• Glacier Point
• Tunnel View
• Mariposa Grove- home to Giant Sequoias!

 

4. Yosemite National Park reservations and day passes

 

To visit Yosemite National Park, reservations are still needed during the summer, busy holiday weeks, and weekends between May through October.  Do keep in mind that there are often long waits to drive in.  If you are camping in Yosemite National Park and already have a reservation, or if you’ve booked a room at one of the lodges, you do not need a day pass to enter.

It’s best to check the Yosemite National Park main website a few weeks before your plan to arrive to see if you need to make a reservation or apply for a day pass.

 

5. where to stay: Hotels, Lodging and Camping in Yosemite National park

 

There are 12 campgrounds in Yosemite National Park, and all can be booked through Recreation.gov.  The most popular ones are located in Yosemite Valley, including the infamous Camp 4.

Keep in mind, it is illegal to camp overnight in a pullout or day-use area within Yosemite National Park. Therefore if you don’t find a campsite, we’ve also included a few Yosemite lodging options below.  In addition, there are also towns nearby including El Portal, Fish Camp, Bass Lake, and Oakhurst, the latter being the largest, with plenty of hotels, shops, and restaurants.  However, driving to and from the park everyday can take hours.  Especially if you want to hit all the highlights- Tuolumne Meadows, Yosemite Valley, and Glacier Point. 

Get familiar with the shuttle system, and the distances/travel time between each part of the part you plan to visit.  This can save you hours on trying to find parking, especially during the summer or over holiday weekends.

 

Campgrounds in Yosemite National Park

• Wawona Campground– near South Entrance, 1 hour from Yosemite Valley
• Bridalveil Creek Campground– near Glacier Point and Mariposa Grove, and Badger Pass Ski Area
• Upper & Lower Pines Campgrounds– in Yosemite Valley near market, wifi, and lodges
• Tamarack Flat, Hodgdon Meadow & Crane Flat Campgrounds– close to Big Oak Flat Entrance, 30mins from Yosemite Valley
• Camp 4– known as the climber’s camp, there is a lottery to get a campsite here
• White Wolf Campground– 2 miles off Tioga Road, near White Wolf Lodge and the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir
• Yosemite Creek Campground– 5 miles off Tioga Road (remote)
• Porcupine Flat Campground– primitive camping, over an hour to Yosemite Valley
• Tuolumne Meadows Campground– best campground off Tioga Road, close to services, and Tuolumne River

 

All Yosemite National Park campgrounds can be reserved through Recreation.gov.

 

Hotels and lodging in Yosemite National Park

 

If camping in Yosemite National Park is not your thing, no worries, there are more posh accommodations.  And there are even glamping options for those who want the camping experience, but not all the hassle!  Here are a few options we love:

 

• Ahwahnee Hotel– the crown jewel of National Park lodges. Worth visiting even if you don’t stay!
• Yosemite Valley Lodge 
• Tuolumne Meadows Lodge
• Housekeeping Camp
• Curry Village– pre-set tents with beds, showers, restaurant, coffee
• Wawona Hotel– gorgeous old hotel at South Entrance
• White Wolf Lodge– a few miles off Tioga Road. Rustic cabins and glamping options!
• Yosemite West– lots of hotel and lodging options and close to Badger Pass Ski Area

 

All hotels and lodges can be booked through several travel sites, including TravelYosemite.com 

 

 

6. Rock Climbing in Yosemite National Park

 

When it comes to rock climbing, Yosemite National Park is the premier climbing destination in the U.S. and its become increasingly popular thanks to films like Free Solo and the Dawn Wall.  You could spend your whole life climbing here and not discover all that the area has to offer.

We always skip the crowded Yosemite Valley and head for Tuolumne Meadows.  Here you’ll find less crowded climbing on solid alpine granite, and a greater chance of scoring a campsite!

In addition, besides Half Dome and El Capitan, Yosemite National Park has hundreds of trad and sport routes, and dozens of boulder problems.  Classic climbing areas in Tuolumne Meadows include the big triple crown of Tenaya Peak, Matthes Crest and Cathedral Peak, plus dozens of routes on Fairview Dome, Lembert Dome, Puppy Dome…Plus you can swim in the Tuolumne River or Tenaya Lake when you finish up!

 

Learn to Rock Climb in yosemite

 

If you want to try rock climbing in Yosemite for the first time, get your kids involved, or maybe you know how to climb but don’t have the gear, go with a guide or organize a group outing.  Yosemite Mountaineering School and Guide Service, located in Curry Village, is one of the only guiding operations allowed to operate in the park.

 

 

Nearby Climbing Areas Outside Yosemite National Park

 

Not ready for trad climbing in Yosemite and seeking more sport routes?  Well with great weather and low humidity, the Bishop area is a climbing mecca year-round. 

Other areas with good climbing and short approaches for beginners and families?  We like Mammoth and June Lake.  Read about all of these places in our Eastern Sierras blog!

Best Time Of Year To Climb or watch rock climbers

 

For rock climbers, the colder and drier the rock is, the better.  This is because cold, dry weather produces more friction between your skin and the rock.  However, you’ll be able to climb or observe climbers year-round in Yosemite Valley.  And remember, Tuolumne Meadows access will be limited to May through October.

For the chance to catch many of the pro climbers that have called Yosemite Valley home, head to El Capitan Meadow.  Remember to pack your binoculars or a scope to see climbers from around the world scaling El Capitan’s big walls from morning to night. 

In addition, the views of El Capitan at night are spectacular as the climbers’ headlamps illuminate their path upwards.  Or light up their bivy sacks as they settle in for the evening high up on the wall!

 

7. OTHER activities in Yosemite National Park

 

Not a climber?  Well, there are still plenty of activities to try when you’re camping in Yosemite National Park:

• Hike Yosemite Falls, a 7.2-mile round trip to the top of the falls
• Rent a bike in Curry Village and ride around the Valley!
• Take the paved trails to view Vernal, Bridalveil & Nevada Falls
• Go skiing, tubing or snowboarding at Badger Pass Ski Area
• Fish the Merced River in El Capitan Meadow or the Tuolumne River.  Get a California fishing permit first!
• Take in the view at Clouds Rest!
• Swim, SUP, fish, or kayak on the gorgeous Tenaya Lake
• Apply for a permit to hike Half Dome.  This strenuous 14-16 mile round-trip hike gains 4,800 feet, the steepest, most dangerous section is the last 400ft. where you’ll be assisted by cables.

 

8. Spotting Bears and Other Wildlife in Yosemite National Park

 

There is an abundance of wildlife in Yosemite National Park.  From marmots to coyotes, big horn sheep to mule deer, and then of course the 300-500 black bears that call Yosemite home.  The best time to spot wildlife is early mornings or at sunset in the meadows and during the quieter months in the park.

The place you don’t want to encourage wildlife to visit is your campsite.  Therefore all campsites in Yosemite National Park are equipped with food lockers or bear boxes.

 

Tips on keeping a bear-free campsite and staying bear-aware:

• Use the bear box!  Put all items with a scent in the bear box.  This includes soap, toothpaste, and sunscreen.
• Do not leave cooking utensils, dishes, or stoves on your picnic table.  It will guarantee unwanted visitors.  And not just a black bear.  Squirrels, chipmunks, marmots, and deer will raid your campsite for any items that look and smell like a treat!
• Keep a safe distance from bears if you spot one.  Especially if it’s a mother and her cubs.  300ft. is what’s recommended.  Resist the urge to approach for a better photo.

 

camping in Yosemite national park: final thoughts

 

If you’ve never been camping in Yosemite National Park, add it to your adventure list!  Want more adventure tips and travel destinations?  Check out some of our other travel blogs here:

• Traveling to Cuba
• Backpacking in the Wind River Range, Wyoming
• Grand Teton National Park
• San Diego: America’s Finest City
• Camping in Sequoia National Park & Kings Canyon

 

To learn more about what we do on the regular, follow Top Rope Media’s adventures on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter.

 

Until next time, happy camping!

– Meredith McConvill, Top Rope Media

How to Find the Best Camping in Yellowstone National Park

 

Thinking about a road trip and camping in Yellowstone National Park?  If so you’ll be rewarded with:

• Early access to wildlife- bison, black bears, elk, grizzly bears, marmots, moose!
• Quieter hours without traffic jams
• Easier access to all the natural wonders within the park- Old Faithful, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, and Mammoth Hot Springs, just to name a few!

 

Yellowstone is filled with lots of great campgrounds, hotels, and lodges.  But you really have to know which part of the park you want to stay in.  In addition, Yellowstone is HUGE!  3,472 square miles. That’s bigger than some U.S. states and many small countries!  And, due to the park’s location, unexpected summer rain and snowstorms can cause road closures at any time.

Therefore, if you drive in each day, you could be faced with long wait times at the entrances, traffic jams in the park, and crowds at the places like Hayden Valley (the best place to spot wildlife) and the Upper Geyser Basin (where you’ll find Old Faithful).

So we’ve packed this blog with lots of information about lodging and camping in Yellowstone National Park, how to find some of the hidden gems, the best places to spot bison, black bears, grizzly bears, and how to keep them out of your campsite!

 

 

Getting There: Summer Road trips through Wyoming to Yellowstone National Park

 

Yellowstone National Park is located in the northwest corner of Wyoming.  And the park borders stretch into both Montana and Idaho.  Therefore, you may not be able to see every section of the park, so we’ve included the highlights below to help you prep for your road trip.

Haven’t packed up for a road trip lately?  Pull up our road trip checklist to make sure you’ve got everything you need!

 

ROAD TRIP CHECKLIST

 

Driving through Wyoming to Yellowstone

 

Never been to Wyoming or driven through the state?  Well, it’s very sparsely populated.  Less than 600,000 people live in Wyoming, making it one of the least populated states in the country! 

The landscape in Wyoming is what really makes it special.  Here you’ll find rugged mountains, large treeless basins, and dozens of ranches.  And many of those ranches are thousands of acres wide!

Therefore, if you are road-tripping to Yellowstone, plan on hours of driving without a gas station or restaurant in sight.  If you’ll be camping along the way, check out Sēkr.  It’s a free app that lets you search for day-use parking spots and campgrounds (free + paid) with things like hookups, water, and wifi.

With Sēkr you can also plan your route, read reviews on campsites, and connect with a community of van-life peeps!

 

 

Best Time of Year for Camping in Yellowstone National Park

 

The best time of year for camping in Yellowstone National Park is between Memorial Day and Labor Day.  All campgrounds open by the end of May and begin to close by mid-September.  The only exception is Mammoth Hot Springs, which is open year-round.

The reason for the short season is that Yellowstone National Park is at about 8,000ft. of elevation, and winters bring in heavy storms and snowfall that make it difficult to keep some roads open.

This being said, wintertime camping or staying at one of the winter lodges will reward you with quieter views of Old Faithful, plus all the bison, wolves (winter is the best time to spot them), elk, and bald eagles you can handle!

 

How to Book a Campsite

 

Lodging and campsites in Yellowstone National Park are not all reserved through Recreation.gov as with other national parks campgrounds. 

Instead, you’ll need to determine which campground or lodge you want to stay in first. Then booking is either through Recreation.gov or the Xanterra Yellowstone National Park Lodges.  Before you log on to either, below are the lodges and campgrounds available, and which activities are nearby!

In addition, almost all campgrounds are located near a lodge or hotel with dining options, a convenience store, laundry, wifi, and more depending on the campground.  We’ll share more in a moment on wifi, cell service, and what apps to download to access interactive maps and daily geyser predictions!

Keep in mind, you are only allowed to camp within a designated campsite, there is no dispersed camping.  Therefore, camping in a pullout, along the side of the road, or in a parking lot is illegal in Yellowstone National Park.

 

 

 

Campgrounds in Yellowstone National Park

 

These campgrounds below are booked through the Xanterra Yellowstone National Park Lodges website:

 

1. Bridge Bay

• Bridge Bay Campground is centrally located near Lake Village (lots of services), Fishing Bridge, a boat launch, and Hayden Valley (one of the best places to spot wildlife!)

 

2. Canyon

• The Canyon Campground is adjacent to Canyon Village (services), Mount Washburn, and the Grand Cayon of Yellowstone.  It’s also very close to Hayden Valley and South Rim Drive- a great place to spot bears!  And probably the campground we’d most recommend!

 

3. Fishing Bridge RV Park

• The Fishing Bridge RV Park is for hard-sided campers or trailers only. It’s adjacent to Lake Village (services), boat launch, and closest to Hayden Valley and the East Entrance.  The need for a hard-sided vehicle might give you a clue as to the types of wildlife that are found in this area.

 

4. Grant Village

• The Grant Village Campground is closest to the South Entrance and Grant Village (services), an easy walk to Yellowstone Lake, there’s a boat launch, and it’s close to the West Thumb Geyser Basin. Old Faithful is a 25-min drive away!

 

5. Madison

• Madison Campground is closest to the West Entrance and located on the Madison River.  Not as many services are nearby, but it’s the closest campground to the Upper and Lower Geyser Basins, where you’ll find Old Faithful!

 

 

The following Yellowstone campgrounds are booked through Recreation.gov and tend to be on the smaller side, and without as many services.  Except for Mammoth Hot Springs, which is also the only campground open year-round!

 

6. Indian Creek

• Indian Creek Campground is a small campground on the Northwest side of the park, just south of Mammoth Hot Springs

 

7. Lewis Lake

• Lewis Lake Campground is a small campground just inside the South entrance to Yellowstone. The closest services are in Grant Village.

 

8. Mammoth

• The campground at Mammoth Hot Springs is just inside the North Entrance to Yellowstone. Here you’ll find lots of services and easy access to hiking through the Hot Springs- no swimming though!

 

9. Norris

• The Norris Campground is a small campground near the Norris Geyser Basin, Museums, and the West Entrance. The closest services are in Mammoth Hot Springs or Canyon Village.

 

10. Pebble Creek

• The Pebble Creek Campground is just inside the northeast entrance to Yellowstone. It’s very close to Lamar Valley, the best place to spot Yellowstone’s wolves!  The closest services are at the Roosevelt Lodge.

 

11. Slough Creek

• The Slough Creek Campground is a small, remote campground just past Pebble Creek near the northeast entrance to Yellowstone. It’s also close to Lamar Valley, where you can spot 4 of Yellowstone’s 8 wolfpacks!  The closest services are at the Roosevelt Lodge.

 

12. Tower Fall

• The Tower Fall Campground is adjacent to Roosevelt Lodge (services) and on the edge of the Lamar Valley.

 

Campgrounds Near Yellowstone National Park

 

We know how hard it is to find campgrounds inside the park, and a friend recommended a place called Campfire Lodge.  Located right on the Madison River about 30 minutes, west of the West Yellowstone Entrance, below Hebgen Lake Dam Campfire Lodge is a really peaceful and convenient spot!  

Another great camping option would be to camp in Grand Teton National Park!  Located just south of Yellowstone, there are several campgrounds throughout the Tetons that make it easy to either day trip into Yellowstone, or jsut spend the night if you’re driving up from Jackson, WY.

 

 

Lodging in Yellowstone National Park

 

The lodges and hotels in Yellowstone National Park are the most beautiful manmade structures within the park.  These are booked through the Xanterra Yellowstone National Park Lodges website.

Lodging and hotel prices in Yellowstone can be quite high, especially compared to a campsite.  However, if you want a few days of luxury, there are nine options for hotels and lodging- over 2,000 rooms available in the park!  And if you want to see Old Faithful go off from your window, the lodges and cabins nearby can provide the perfect uninterrupted view.

In addition, the Yellowstone lodges often have great restaurants and plenty of places to lounge by the fire and catch up on emails!  Yes, the lodges and visitor centers are some of the only areas within the park where you’ll be able to access wifi and cell service!

 

1. Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins – open summer & winter
2. Canyon Lodge & Cabins– summer only
3. Old Faithful Snow Lodge & Cabins – open summer & winter
4. Old Faithful Inn– summer only
5. Lake Lodge Cabins– summer only
6. Lake Yellowstone Hotel and Cabins– summer only and by far the prettiest in yellow & white!
7. Roosevelt Lodge & Cabins– summer only
8. Grant Village- Fox Lodge– summer only

 

 

Bears in Yellowstone National Park

 

You can spot both grizzlies and black bears throughout Yellowstone National Park.  So an encounter with a black bear or grizzly bear can happen at any time.  Anywhere.

Bears may appear docile, minding their own business, but can move quickly and can be aggressive.  In addition, black bears and grizzlies can run at speeds of up to 35mph!

A good rule is to stay 100 yards or 300 feet away from black bears, grizzly bears, or wolves.  Sightings are rare, however, ‘a fed bear is a dead bear.’  So if you think you can control your urge to feed or approach a bear in Yellowstone, Hayden Valley is one of the best places to see black bears and grizzly bears.  Especially the backside of Hayden Valley near South Rim Drive, Uncle Tom’s Trail, Artist’s Point, and Clear Lake.

Also, keep an eye out for Yellowstone’s black and grizzly bears near the Fishing Bridge, Tower-Roosevelt area, Lamar Valley, and the East Entrance.

 

 

Tips on keeping a bear-free campsite and staying bear-aware:

 

• Use the bear box!  Put all items with a scent in the bear box.  This includes soaps, lotions, sunscreen, and even water bottles.
• Do not leave cooking utensils, dishes, or stoves on your picnic table at your Yellowstone campsite.  It will guarantee unwanted visitors.  And not just a large black bear or grizzly bear.  Squirrels, chipmunks, marmots, wolves, and deer will raid your campsite for any items that look and smell like a treat!
• Carry bear spray at all times.  Especially when hiking or biking.  And, read the NPS Guidelines on how to use bear spray effectively.
• Keep a safe distance from bears if you spot one.  Especially if it’s a mother and her cubs.  300ft. is what’s recommended.  Resist the urge to approach for a better photo.

 

If are you reading this and you’re already in the park and forgot to buy bear spray, not to worry.  You can buy bear spray at most convenience stores within the park.

 

 

Last Thoughts on Camping in Yellowstone National Park

 

If you’ve never been camping in Yellowstone National Park, add it to your adventure list!  And if you’ve been before, I hope this guide gave you some new ideas for camping and planning your road trip.

 

Want to Fly, Then Drive?

 

If you plan to fly first, then drive, look for flights into Bozeman, Idaho Falls, or Jackson, Wyoming.  If you’re driving from Utah or Idaho, you have two options to enter the park:

• Drive to Jackson, WY, (Or Jackson Hole as it is often called) and travel through Grand Teton National Park to the South Entrance.  Grand Teton National Park is one of our favorite parks, and also a great place to spot bison, moose, elk, grizzly bears, and black bears so you will not be disappointed!
• Drive to West Yellowstone, a small town just outside the park, and enter at the West Entrance.

 

If you’re camping in Yellowstone National Park and driving in from Montana, South Dakota, or other points North or East, you can enter at the following places:

• North Entrance at Mammoth Hot Springs and Gardiner, MT
• Northeast Entrance near Cooke, MT.  The road between the Northeast and North Entrance is open year-round.
• East Entrance

 

Cell Service, Wifi, and Apps to Download for Camping in Yellowstone

 

Do not expect to have cell service while in the park.  So if you have a hot spot or cell booster, bring it!  We managed 1-2 bars of 3G-like service with a cell booster in a few open spaces, and at higher elevations throughout the park.

Wifi is available in Yellowstone at most lodges and visitor centers.  But do not expect fast wifi speeds for video calls or streaming.  However, you will be able to check your email, post to social media, and make phone calls.

Therefore, to get the park news, weather, and tips on when Old Faithful and other geysers will go off, use the National Parks Service App!  Features also include interactive maps, self-guided tours (with lots of history and park info), daily park events, and real-time geyser eruption predictions!

More apps we love: Sēkr for camping options and campground reviews, OnX Backcountry for hiking, and Gaia GPS.  Just be sure to download and set up all apps BEFORE you head into the park!

 

Want more adventure tips and travel destinations?  Check out some of our other travel blogs here:

• Cuba Libre: Travel Tips for Outdoor Adventurers
• Backpacking in the Wind River Range, Wyoming
• San Diego: America’s Finest City

 

To learn more about what we do on the regular, follow Top Rope Media’s adventures on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.

 

Until next time, happy camping!

– Meredith McConvill, Top Rope Media

Backpacking Adventures in the Wind River Range

 

Thinking about a camping trip to the Wind River Range?  Are these must-haves for your backpacking adventure:

• Hiking
• Fishing
• Wildlife sightings
• No throngs of tourist traffic, or RV generators running into the wee hours of the morning!

 

Well, then the peaceful and scenic Wind River Range in Wyoming might be just the spot!  Are you planning to drive there?  If so, check out our road trip checklist with tips on what to pack for the best adventure travel!

 

ROAD TRIP PACKING CHECKLIST

 

The Wind River Range

 

The Wind River Range is a 100-mile long chain of towering granite peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and glacier-carved meadows.  It remains a special place for those seeking adventure off the beaten path.

Whether you are fishing, camping, or rock climbing, we’ve included everything to help you prep for your summer backpacking adventure in the Winds, as they’re commonly called.

 

 

Highlights Of The Wind River Range

 

• Cirque of the Towers– a stunning semi-circle of 12,000-foot peaks
• Gannett Peak– the tallest mountain in Wyoming at 13,804 feet
• Titcomb Basin– a picturesque valley surrounded by lakes and mountains
• Skyline Scenic Drive- If you are not up for carrying a backpack and hiking some good miles into the wilderness, you can still get a taste of what the Wind River Range has to offer.  The Skyline Scenic Drive takes you 17 miles outside of Pinedale, ending at the Elkhart Park Trailhead.
• Alpine Rock Climbing– The Wind River Range has incredible trad climbing.  You’ll find both single-pitch and multi-pitch climbing with a wide range of grades from 5.6 to 5.13c in an alpine environment.

 

Wildlife in the Winds

 

Wildlife sightings may include bighorn sheep, owls, bears, deer, elk, and eagles.  In addition, the headwaters of the Green River, along with hundreds of lakes and streams, are teeming with rainbow and cutthroat trout!

Both black bears and grizzly bears can be found in the Wind River Range, and although sightings are rare, be prepared.  Keep your campsite clean and store food properly (see our tips below).

 

 

Getting There: Access to the Wind River range

 

If you are flying into the area, the closest major airports to the Wind River Range are found in Jackson, Wyoming, or Salt Lake City, Utah.  From Jackson, the drive is about 3 hours.  From Salt Lake City, the drive to the Winds is closer to 5.

 

Access to the Wind River Range from the South or West

 

If you’re coming from places like Utah’s National Parks, Idaho, Grand Teton National Park, or Yellowstone, you will most likely visit the West side of Wind River Range.  To hike in, you’ll use either the Big Sandy trailhead or the Elkhart Park trailhead.

The Big Sandy Trail is the southernmost trail that leads into the Wind River Range and provides access to the Cirque of the Towers, Deep Lake, Black Joe Lake, and Big Sandy Lake.  Located 54 miles south of Pinedale, you will need to drive on a mix of paved and dirt roads to reach the trailhead.

Driving to the Big Sandy Trailhead is not quite suitable for large RVs.  In addition, flash floods and summer thunderstorms can cause road closures, so always check the weather before departing.

However, the Elkhart Park Trailhead is at the end of Skyline Scenic Drive, a paved 17-mile road that starts near Pinedale.  This trail provides access to Gannett Peak and the Titcomb Basin.  And is much easier to manage with a large campervan van or RV.

Pinedale is the closest ‘big’ town and the best place to stock up if you’re coming from points North and West.  The town is small but filled with shops, restaurants, and plenty of accommodations.

Farson is another place to stop for gas, food, or last-minute items.  However, Farson is not a town, just a crossroads.  And the last time you really get cell service!

 

Access to the Wind River Range from the East

 

If you’re coming from Colorado or points East, you’ll head towards Lander, Wyoming.  Similar to Pinedale, there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and places to stay. However, Lander is more your quintessential mountain town.  And Lander was voted one of the best outdoor towns in America!

In Lander, there’s easy access to Sinks Canyon State Park, Popo Agie Falls Trail, Pete’s Lake Trail, and several campgrounds.  Other towns nearby include Hudson, where they’re hosting this year’s overlanding and van life gathering, the Wind River Rally!

 

 

Camping and Living the Van Life in the Wind River Range

 

There are a few campgrounds on both the East and West sides of the Wind River Range.  However, most campers prefer to backpack into the Winds and select a spot.  Here there are no designated campsites, no permits needed, and no services.  It’s all wilderness!

However, if backpacking is not your thing, it is possible to camp in a more traditional campground and do day hikes into different areas.  Below we’ve featured our favorite campground, Big Sandy.

 

Big Sandy Campground

 

Big Sandy Campground is one of the most popular campgrounds for accessing the Wind River Range.  There are no reservations or permits needed.  Therefore, all campsites are on a first-come, first-served basis.  However, access to this area is very limited due to snow and road conditions.

To get to Big Sandy Campground, you will drive about 40 miles on mostly dirt and washboard terrain.  That being said, the drive to Big Sandy Campground is not quite suitable for large campervans and RVs.

You will find 10 sites total in Big Sandy Campground, a few of which have access to stock pens if you’re traveling with horses.  There’s also a large dirt lot for backpackers, as the Big Sandy Trailhead starts at the parking lot. 

If you had a campervan or small RV, you could certainly park in the lot and stay overnight.  There is also a compost toilet in the parking lot.  And pens for stock animals.

As Big Sandy is a primitive campground, you will not find the following:

• Running water. Be prepared to filter your water from the lakes and streams
• Cell service
• Trash cans or dumpsters. You must pack out all of your trash!
• Bear boxes.  Use proper food storage techniques. More on this below.

 

Big Sandy Campground is typically open between the end of June through September. 

 

 

Should You Hire a Guide to Backpack or Hike the Winds in Wyoming

 

If you want to try backpacking in the Wind River Range but are not sure how to get started, think about hiring a guide.  Or book your trip through an outfitter.  This will ensure you are well-prepared for your backcountry adventure.

In addition, they can take care of most of the heavy lifting and even load your packs on horseback for the hike!  This means you can do your hike into the Winds with a light daypack!  And when your hike is over 8-10 miles, you will most certainly appreciate it!

Many guiding services provide everything from tents and meals, to round-trip transportation from Jackson, Wyoming.  Highly recommended outfitters include:

• Bald Mountain Outfitters
• Wildland Trekking
• Exum Mountain Guides
• Big Sandy Lodge

 

Big Sandy Lodge: Outfitter and Cabins

Big Sandy Lodge is our favorite outfitter.  They have 10 cabins, a lodge for meals, shared bathrooms and showers, and wranglers that can haul your gear in on horseback.

Big Sandy Lodge is family-owned and operated, and they really go the extra mile to make you feel welcome.  And even if you are not booking a cabin, you can still join other guests in the warm, cozy lodge for breakfast or dinner.

Lastly, the Big Sandy Lodge is about a mile from the Big Sandy Campground and Trailhead.

 

• 

  Planning to rock climb in the Wind River Range? Make sure you have a full trad rack and everything ready for big wall alpine climbing!

 

More Tips For Your Wind River Adventure

 

Map Reading:

Know how to use a compass and read a topographic map, especially if you will not be hiring a guide.  Trails are not well-marked and most see very light traffic throughout the summer.  We also picked up the Falcon Guide: Hiking Wyoming’s Wind River Range!

Are you a climber?  Well, then you might want to check out the Falcon Guide: Climbing and Hiking in the Wind River Range.

 

Wind River Camping Locations and Fees:

There are no entrance fees at the Winds, however, there are campground fees at the designated campgrounds.  You can also hike a few miles into the Winds and set up camp without paying any fees.  Then you can take on a bigger effort like hiking all the way to Deep Lake, Black Joe Lake, or the Cirque of the Towers.

Remember, camps should be set up 200 feet from lakes or streams, and 100 feet from the road or trail.

 

 

Wyoming Wind River Weather:

The best time to visit the Wind Rivers is July through mid-September.  This way all trails should be clear of snow.  And, the later you go, you can avoid the dreaded mosquitos.

However, keep in mind chilly nights and thunderstorms are common above 9,000 feet in the summer.  And snowfall can also occur year-round.  Always be prepared.  We had 4 days of rain and temperatures in the low 40s in the middle of August!  Even though the weather report called for 60s and sunny!

Therefore, bring good, waterproof rain gear that you can hike in for cold and rainy weather.  And check the latest conditions before your departure.

 

Hiking preparedness:

For the best experience in the Winds, make sure you are comfortable carrying a mid-sized pack and hiking several miles a day.  And, hiking at elevations over 10,000ft.

Does a 40-pound pack seem like too much?  Then reach out to an outfitter or guide service like the Big Sandy Lodge to reserve horses and wranglers to carry your gear in!

As an example, our hike along the Big Sandy Trail to Black Joe Lake was 8.5 miles, and 2,000ft. of climbing.  And, the majority of the elevation gain was in the last 3 miles.  We got an early start and are in good shape, but it still took us over 4 hours to hike 8.5 miles!

Don’t forget to break in your hiking shoes well before your trip.  Remember, this is a remote area.  And, access to shops that sell camping equipment, as well as medical services, are quite far away.

 

 

Packing for Backcountry Travel:

Learn how to pack a backpack!  In addition, determine what essentials you’ll need based on your type of trip.  Don’t skimp on the rain gear or the food!  We’ve also pulled together a list of what travel essentials to pack for your best outdoor adventure.

 

Water:

There is easy access to water from lakes and streams, however, you will need to purify the water by boiling, filtering, or using chemical tablets.  Outdoor Gear Lab reviewed some of the best water filters on the market and almost all are available on Amazon.

We use Life Straw and had no issues, but we did have to set up quite a large system to accommodate 5 people and 3 dogs!  And, walking back and forth to the lake to fill your water bladder and/or buckets is definitely a daily chore.

 

Altitude:

The Wind River Range is above 9,000 feet.  Therefore, make sure to spend a day or two acclimating to higher altitudes at the trailhead campgrounds.  Again, this is why we love the Big Sandy Lodge.  A day or two at the cabins and you’ll be ready!

 

 

Bear Safety and Food Storage:

Learn how to tie up your food or bring secure food canisters to keep the critters out!  There are no bearproof food storage boxes located in the Winds.

So, purchasing a few bearproof canisters, dry bags, and smell-proof bags that you can travel with is a great idea.  In addition, we pack bear spray, even traveling with a 70-pound hound dog.  Keep it on you and know how to use it.

Dry bags like Osprey’s 20L Ultralight Dry Sack and scent-proof bags like OPSAK and Smelly Proof are very helpful!  Plan to tie up everything from toiletries to dog food. 

Yes, it’s a daily chore.  Well, sometimes a 3x a day chore!  But, after each meal, you need to pack up your food, haul it to the tree you have your anchor set up on, and then raise it up in the air.

We recommend either buying a hanging food storage bag system or creating your own.  And practice hanging your food before you hike into the Wind River Range.  Here’s a good video that demonstrates the PCT bear bagging method.

 

Tips on keeping a bear-free campsite and staying bear-aware:

• Use a bear canister or hang your food in scent-proof bags!  Put all items with a scent in the bear canister or smell-proof dry bags.  This includes soaps, lotions, sunscreen, and even water bottles.
• Do not leave cooking utensils, dishes, or stoves out.  It will guarantee unwanted visitors.  And not just a large bear.  Squirrels, chipmunks, marmots, and deer will raid your campsite for any items that look and smell like a treat!
• If cleaning fishing or cooking over a campfire, remove all clothes that smell and wear something scent-free to sleep in.
• Carry bear spray at all times.  Especially when hiking in more remote locations of the Wind River Range.  And, read the NPS Guidelines on how to use bear spray effectively.
• Keep a safe distance from bears if you spot one.  Especially if it’s a mother and her cubs.  300 feet is what’s recommended.  Resist the urge to approach for a better photo.

 

Need more tips on food storage and bear safety?  Here are the U.S. Forest Service food storage basics.

 

 

Bathrooms:

Not often a topic you want to discuss, but you need a bathroom plan as there are no compost toilets or any facilities once you leave the campground or cabins.  The best practice is to Leave No Trace and pack out all human and dog waste during your time in the Winds.

How to do this?  We set up a private area outside of camp that served as our camp ‘bathroom’.  You can purchase a portable camp toilet that comes with everything you need to feel a bit more comfortable.

If you are having horses haul in your gear, this is a nice option.  Also, pack a pop-up changing tent to make it even more comfortable.  You will thank me when it’s raining.

 

Bugs:

Mosquitos and other bugs are plentiful in the summer months.  So, make sure to pick up bug spray before you drive or fly up.  You may luck out on mosquitos if you hike in towards the end of August or the beginning of September.  But, you could also get snow!

 

Fishing and Hunting in the Winds:

A valid license from the Wyoming Game and Fish Department is required for fishing or hunting in the Wind River Range.  And, flyfishing is the most common form of fishing in the area.

Many of the lakes and streams in the Winds will have a number of different species of trout.  From brown, rainbow, and cutthroat, to brook and lake trout.  Again, make sure you have extra flies, lines, and everything else you need before you leave civilization.

 

 

Campfires:

There are campfires permitted in certain areas of the Winds.  However, check the latest fire regulations before departing.  In hot, dry summers, expect to not be allowed to light a fire in the Wind River Range.  So if you were planning to cook your meals on an open fire, bring the Jetboil and if horse-packing in, the camp stove.

 

Leave No Trace:

Be respectful of wild places and ensure that whatever your pack in you must carry out.  Learn more about Leave No Trace and how you can help!

 

More Adventure Travel Tips

 

There’s definitely a lot to think about when planning a backpacking trip to the Winds!  And it’s such a different type of trip than visiting Yellowstone or the Tetons.  Especially if you like to be off the beaten path.

We hope this gets you excited about traveling through Wyoming this summer, and if you have more questions about how we prepared, contact us!

Looking for more travel ideas for fun destinations?

• Top 8 Summer Activities in San Diego
• Cuba Libre: Travel Tips for Outdoor Adventurers in the land of Classic Cars, Cigars, and Rock Climbing 
• Road Trip through Utah’s National Parks
• California’s 395: Road Trip through Bishop, Mammoth Lakes, and Yosemite National Park

 

TOP 8 SUMMER ACTIVITIES IN SAN DIEGO

 

To learn more about what we do on the regular, follow Top Rope Media’s adventures on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.

Until next time, happy adventuring!

– Meredith McConvill

costa rica Vacation for Adventure, Relaxation and that pura vida

 

Are you planning on traveling to Costa Rica for both relaxation and a little adventure?  And to experience that ‘pura vida’? 

Well this blog will give you lots of tips on where to stay, how to get around, and what activities you should try while vacationing in Costa Rica.  But first, some fun facts!  Did you know:

• Costa Rica covers only 0.03% of the world’s surface but contains 6% of its biodiversity
• There are 200 volcanoes, making it a prime spot for geothermal energy production…and hot springs!
• Costa Rica has no military presence (no army or navy)
• The sloth is the National animal of Costa Rica (as of summer 2021!)
• Costa Rica was built on coffee- the grano de oro or ‘golden grain’
• It’s the birthplace of eco-tourism!

What is pura vida

 

One of the first sayings you might hear in Costa Rica is ‘pura vida’.  Pronounced POUR-A-VEEDA, it literally translates to the pure life.  So, living the simple life is a key component to happiness in Costa Rica. 

Whether you are a local, or a traveler.  You will hear it as a greeting in the morning, as an answer to how is your day, or before you go to sleep at night. 

If you typically lead a fast-paced, hectic life, then enjoy the pura vida found in Costa Rica.  Slow down and enjoy reading by the beach.  Sleep in.  Eat fresh fruit with every meal.  Enjoy the monkeys howling in the trees! 

best places to visit in Costa Rica

 

The country of Costa Rica is about the size of West Virginia.  So it is possible to visit more than one region during your trip!

However, keep in mind, most of the driving  in Costa is on smaller roads, even dirt roads.  Speeds in your rental car will barely top 50mph!  So, although some distances appear close, it could take hours to reach them.  More on renting a car in a bit!   

As you can see in the map above, Costa Rica is divided into 7 provinces: Guanacaste, San José, Alajuela, Heredia, Limón, Puntarenas, and Cartago.  The majority of travelers visit Guanacaste and Puntarenas for the beaches, followed by Alajuela for the volcanos! 

Here’s some of the most popular towns/areas you may want to visit within those regions:

Guanacaste

• Rincon de la Vieja volcano
• Tamarindo, Playa Langosta, and Playa Grande
• Papagayo- a newly developed area with lots of all-inclusives
• Playa Guiones, Samara, and smaller beach towns along the Nicoya Peninsula

ALajuela:

• Arenal Volcano and the town of Fortuna
• Monteverde Cloud Forest

Puntarenas:

• Santa Teresa-  Southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula
• Jaco- touristy beach area
• Quepos and Manuel Antonio National Park
• The Osa Pennisula

 

Flying in To Costa Rica: Which Airport Should You Choose?

 

The 2 main airports you’ll fly into from the U.S. are either Liberia or San Jose.  Traveling to anywhere in the Guanacaste province?  Book your flights into Liberia International Airport (LIR). 

Traveling to the Puntarenas province, Arenal, the Caribbean, or destinations south?  Then look for flights into the airport in San José (SJO).  San José is the larger of the 2 airports, located in Costa Rica’s capital city.  And it serves more airlines with many more international flights per day.

In addition, you can also find connecting flights in San José to reach places like Santa Teresa (Tambor Regional Airport) on the Nicoya Peninsula.    

Many U.S.-based airlines now fly to Costa Rica, including Southwest, Alaska, Delta and others.  International airlines that fly from Canada and Mexico into Costa Rica include Copa, Air Canada, and Mexicana.  And finally for travel within Costa Rica, check out Sansa. 

As for rental cars, if you’re planning to stay in one town, you will not need a rental car.  Instead rent bikes or quads!  Take a taxi or a pedi-cab.  Most towns will have quads or bike rentals available.  

best time of year to visit costa rica

 

Costa Rica is a beautifully lush country any time of year!  The rainy season is from May through December.  And the dry season from mid-December through April.  

The dry season is also when you will find the highest prices on accommodations and airfare.  And the most tourists. 

Keep in mind, like most other tropical destinations, most days during the rainy season it may only rain for an hour or two.  This leaves you with plenty of sunshine for the rest of your day’s activities!    

top things to do in costa rica

 

Believe it or not, not everyone comes to Costa Rica to surf.  Although Costa Rica is indeed a major surf trip destination, there’s so many other activities that you may find it hard to choose what to do each day!

Here are our Top Things to Do in Costa Rica:

 

1. Mountain biking

Renting a bike or a quad is a great way to get around small towns in Costa Rica.  But did you know well-maintained mountain bike trails exist near some of the coastal towns like Tamarindo and Playa Guionies as well as up in the mountains? 

Check out Nosara MTB in Playa Guiones adjacent to one of our favorite hotels, the Gilded Iguana Hotel, for rentals.  There’s even a bike park here in town! 

In Tamarindo, try one of the local guide shops for bike rentals.  Or Pura Vida Ride, which is about 40 minutes south of Tamarindo, will have more higher end mountain bikes and have a nice trail system nearby.   

Visiting Rincon de la Vieja?  They have a wonderful trail system that takes you to waterfalls, hot springs, and with views of the volcano.  We loved the mountain bike rentals and the trails around the Hacienda Guachipelín!

 

2. Snorkeling or Scuba Diving

Not all of Costa’s rich biodiversity is found on land.  Some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Costa Rica is easily accessible by organizing a full day or half day boat trip. 

Costa Rica’s most stunning underwater areas include:

• Isla Catalina
• Cahuita National Park on the Caribbean 
• Isla Murciélagos at the tip of Santa Rosa National Park
• Isla Tortugas in Puntarenas, closest to Santa Teresa 

Read more about the best snorkeling and diving from Culture Trip!

3. Sign up for a Yoga Class 

 

Yogis flock to Costa Rica to flex, stretch, and purify their bodies.  And many hotels will have yoga studios, or ‘yoga decks’ overlooking the ocean!

Two of our favorites were in Santa Teresa at Florblanca and Pranamar Oceanfont Villas and Yoga Retreat. 

Be prepared to pay at least $12-30 a class, purchase a package, or stay at a yoga retreat center.  Check out these other incredible options for a yoga retreat!

 

4. Book a Massage or spa Retreat

 

Treat yourself in Costa Rica, especially after a hard day of surfing or ziplining through the jungle, to a rejuvenating massage.  There are an abundance of spas and massage therapists available.  From your high enter luxury to low-budget or eco-friendly. 

Our favorites include El Silencio de Campo, a spa and resort surrounded by the jungle with thermal pools and volcano views. Located in Fortuna near the Arenal Volcano, spend a day or two here if you can!

Another nice but pricer option nearby is Tabacón Thermal Resort and Spa.  Indulge in the largest network of flowing mineral springs in Costa Rica!

Heading to the south?  Try the Gaia Hotel and Nature Reserve in Quepos near Manuel Antonio National Park. 

 

5. hang with the howler monkeys

 

If you’ve never heard the call of a howler monkey, you’re in for a treat.  Howler monkeys make an incredibly loud yet haunting sound, and their calls can travel up to 2-3 miles through the dense rainforest habitat!

There are 15 different species of howler monkeys, and they’re about 2-3ft. in length, not including their tails.  You will usually find a family of 6-15 howler monkeys all together in the trees!  Typically one large adult male and females with babies.

In this incredibly biodiverse landscape, you will not only find howler monkeys in the trees, but dozens of species of birds, butterflies, sloths, iguanas and so many more creatures that call Costa Rica home.  

 

6. Take a hike or trail run through the jungle

 

There are dozens of beautiful hiking trails around both the Arenal Volcano and Rincon de la Vieja Volcano.  You can also hike to one of the many waterfalls, read more about that below, or just take it easy and hike along the coast.

Go in the morning or just before sunset for your best chance of seeing and hearing the howler monkeys!  

Check out All Trails for more specifics, but here’s a few things to keep in mind when hiking in the jungles of Costa Rica: it will be warm and humid.  So in addition to wearing sunblock, bug spray, and good hiking shoes that dry fast, make sure to bring plenty of water and a hat!  Lastly, always go with a buddy and with plenty of daylight ahead of you.

 

7. Visit the waterfalls or cataratas in costa rica

Many of the best hiking trails in Costa Rica will lead to gorgeous waterfalls.  And we always carry a packable quick-drying towel for those impromptu moments!  A few we love include:

• La Fortuna Waterfall near Arenal
• Rio Celeste Waterfall in Tenorio Volcano National Park (near Lake Arenal)
• Montezuma Waterfall outside of the town of Montezuma near Santa Teresa
• Chorreras Waterfall, Oropendola Waterfall, and Victoria Waterfall all on the sprawling grounds of the Hacienda Guachipelín!

Signage for the waterfalls may say ‘catarata’ or ‘cascada’, which is Spanish for waterfall.  Visiting during the rainy season?  Be aware of flash floods, expect muddy water, and watch out for debris moving swiftly downstream.  Oh and crocodiles!

8. take a crocodile tour through the mangroves

Did you know Costa Rica is home to crocodiles?  Yes!  Two species, the American Crocodile and the Caiman.  If you’re heading towards Jaco, you can see dozens of crocodiles from the Tarcoles River Bridge! 

In the Tamarindo area?  Get a guide and spend the morning in the estuary exploring the mangroves just inland from the coast.  Not only will you see crocodiles, but also dozens of species of birds, and even howler monkeys! 

It is not safe to hike or SUP on your own along riverbanks or swim in rivers where crocodiles may be present.  So a tour guide or an estuary boat tour is the way to go.  One Costa Rica tour guide company we loved was Native’s Way!

9. watch sea turtles nesting

 

One of the most unique adventures you can have traveling in Costa Rica is to watch sea turtles nesting.  You might also catch baby sea turtles making their way out to sea.  The nesting or egg-laying process can happen with hundreds of sea turtles all coming ashore at the same time. These are called arribadas and are just incredible to watch!

As someone who studied marine biology for years, seeing a sea turtle in real life is pretty special.  And since all 7 species of sea turtles are endangered, it’s even more humbling to watch them crawl up onto the beach under the cloak of darkness, dig a hole in the sand, and lay their eggs. 

Why are sea turtles endangered?  Sea turtles are often tracked and killed for their eggs, meat, and their shell.  And then there’s habitat destruction and climate change…but I digress.  However, sea turtle poaching or exploitation is taken very seriously in Costa Rica, where eco-tourism originally began.

Therefore, if you want to get up close with a sea turtle, support one of the local tour guides and book a truly one-of-a-kind experience.  We worked with Native’s Way in Tamarindo and visited Las Baulas National Marine Park near Playa Grande!

But if you happen to be on your own, Costa Rica’s National Parks, or quieter beaches that do not have as many people or light pollution are great spots for sea turtle hatching or nesting. 

 

 Types of Sea Turtles in Costa Rica

 

There are several different species of sea turtles that you might see in Costa Rica, and below are the areas they can be found and the best times to see them:

 

Olive Ridley sea turtle– The Ostional Wildlife Refuge or Ostional Beach on the Nicoya Peninsula is the largest of 2 locations in Costa Rica where there is an annual arribada.

Just north of Playa Guiones, hundreds of olive ridley sea turtles come ashore at Ostional to lay their eggs just before the new moon.  Visit September through October for the best chance of seeing an Olive Ridley sea turtle arribada.

Green sea turtle- Green sea turtles are primarily found on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica in Tortuguero National Park near Limón.  And, Tortuguero is the largest nesting site for green sea turtles in the Western Hemisphere!  Visit July through mid-October.

Leatherback sea turtle– Leatherback or Las Baulas in Spanish, and is also the name of the National Marine Park where you can find leatherback sea turtles. 

Just north of Tamarindo near Playa Grande, Las Baulas National Marine Park is a prime nesting site for the world’s largest sea turtle!  Visit the Caribbean February through June, or Playa Grande October through February.

Hawksbill sea turtles and Loggerhead sea turtles- You may find Loggerheads nesting on the Caribbean side and Hawksbill sea turtles on the Pacific side of the country, however, these are the rarest species.

 

10. visit the hot springs and take a mud bath

 

Costa Rica has an extraordinary amount of geothermal activity.  There are almost 200 volcanos! 

And most of the country’s energy, over 95%, is either geothermal or hydroelectric.  Talk about using your renewable resources!  If you’re really into learning more, we loved the Green Policy platform’s article Full Steam Ahead: Tapping into Costa Rica’s Geothermal Energy.

So while you’re traveling in Costa Rica, visit one of the many hot springs or thermal pools.  Often you’ll find these nearest volcanos including Arenal and Rincon de la Vieja.

In addition, there are several resorts where the hot springs percolate through the property, warming small secluded pools at different temperatures.

Lastly, while at most hot springs, you’ll have the opportunity to take a mud bath…do it!  The rich minerals contained in the mud help alleviate tension, calm skim conditions, decrease stress, and soothe sore muscles.  Here are a few places we loved for mud baths and hot springs: 

• El Silencio de Campo, a resort surrounded by the jungle with thermal pools and a view of Arenal
• Tabacón Thermal Resort and Spa, also near Arenal, it boast the largest network of flowing mineral springs
• Hacienda Guachipelín, located at Rincon de la Vieja, this was our favorite place for almost every activity except surfing!

 

11. try ziplining through costa rica’s rainforest

One of the most exhilarating ways to see and experience life high up in the rainforest tree canopy is by zip-lining.  And, you do not need any experience to try zip-lining in Costa Rica. 

Just be comfortable walking up stairs, and get ready to enjoy a bit of high flying way above the jungle floor! 

Most of the tourist areas will have zipline canopy tours nearby.  In addition, some tour companies will combine a zipline tour with a waterfall hike or a visit to the hot springs.  

-12. visit a costa rica coffee plantation

 

It all started with coffee in Costa Rica, and the amazing biodiversity might have helped a little!  So if you consider yourself a coffee connoisseur then your trip would not be complete without a visit to one of Costa Rica’s coffee plantations.

There’s a few different regions where coffee is grown, but mainly in the central mountainous area around the San José province.  The largest coffee producing area in Costa Rica is Tarrazú, which is south of San José and close to the Cartago province.  Here you’ll find higher elevations, rich volcanic soils, and cooler temperatures.

Skip the touristy coffee tastings, the ones in storefronts that aren’t really producing coffee at all, and visit a coffee plantation or farm, finca in Spanish.

Here’s a few smaller operations: Hacienda La Minita, the Finca Rosa Blanca Inn and Coffee Farm, or Aquiares. 

Or you can read more about the top Costa Rica coffee Tours at some of the larger establishments.  And if you don’t have enough room in your suitcase, brands like Britt can be easily purchased in the states through Amazon! 

 

13. take a surf lesson

 

Well, we’ve saved the best for last and for those that have never tried surfing, Costa Rica is one of the best places to learn.  There’s lots of beginner beach breaks with warm, gentle waves rolling across sandy bottoms.  From surf camps, to surf retreats, to just a one hour surf lesson, here’s some of the best surf camps from AFAR!

During your lesson you will be given a longboard, most likely a foam board or softtop that’s about 8 feet or longer, and a rash guard to wear over your bathing suit.  Beach towns like Jaco, Quepo, Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, Playa Guiones, and Papagayo also have plenty of surf shops where you can rent surfboards and go on your own. 

If you’re an intermediate surfer, or only plan to surf for a few days out of your trip, it’s actually not a bad idea to leave your board at home and rent one.  Places like the Gilded Iguana in Playa Guiones not only offer high quality surfboard rentals, they also have an entire Surf Club where you can grab a smoothie, rent a locker, store your board, and have a shower post surf session!    

 

places to stay in costa rica

 

Need more ideas on where to stay in Costa Rica?  We love renting Airbnb’s when we’re staying for a week or longer, or with a group of friends.  However, here are a few gorgeous places that can accommodate both couples or a small group, and are away from the crowds!

• Surf Vista Villas in Santa Teresa is one of our favorites for a group trip! 
• Gilded Iguana in Playa Guiones
• Playa Langosta’s Sueño del Mar –relaxation away from the crowd and conveniently located in walking distance to both surf breaks in Tamarindo (more beginner friendly), and Playa Langosta (more advanced)!
• In Playa Grande the Rip Jack Inn – great treetop bar and restaurant. There’s a good surf break out front, it’s walking distance to Las Baulas Marine Park, and you can book an estuary tour to see crocodiles!

 

Want to read more of our travel blogs for warm weather destinations?

• Cuba Libre: Travel Tips for Outdoor Adventurers in the land of Classic Cars and Cigars 
• Oaxaca, Mexico Travel Guide
• Adventure Travel in Spain

 

Until next time, happy traveling and enjoy some pura vida wherever you are!

 

Meredith McConvill